10. Excessive use of Potassium Supplements
Potassium is an electrolyte that has a host of health benefits. This mineral helps regulate the heartbeat and ensure the body is hydrated properly. People with high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat may feel they should take potassium supplements to improve their cardiovascular health. Athletes may be encouraged to go to the next level and not just have a banana before working out but should reach for potassium supplements.
However, many experts recommend not taking potassium supplements in these cases because of the risks involved, including heart problems and hyperkalemia. It is better to get additional potassium from foods such as bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados, cantaloupes, spinach, and coconut milk.
The risks of developing health problems because of excessive potassium are too great for most people to be safe taking potassium supplements. The potassium most of us get from the foods we eat every day is usually sufficient to regulate the heartbeat and stay hydrated.